![Stockkeeper Hector Barcenas Rivera at the Ruter Garage. Stockkeeper Hector Barcenas Rivera at the Ruter Garage.](/Data/Sites/1/media/blog/hector-web.jpg)
Across the organization, Metro Transit employees’ work has been changed by the COVID-19 pandemic. These "In This Together" Q&As illustrate how employees are adapting both on and off the clock. Read more interviews here.
How has the pandemic affected your day-to-day work?
Things were a little bit challenging at the beginning when wipes, masks and gloves were in short supply. We have more options now, and are seeing more of the things we need coming in every day. For me, I just need to keep an eye on my stock and make sure that if anything is depleting faster than usual I replenish it in time so I don’t run out.
What’s it like working through a pandemic?
I’ve been here about 18 months, and previously worked part-time washing and fueling buses at First Transit. While I was doing that job, I started seeing the importance of public transit to people from all walks of life. Now, everything has changed but people are still relying on public transportation. To me, it’s even more important now. When I go to the store, I also think about all the people who are doing the best they can to bring things to the shelf. Right now, we’re all going though one challenge after another. But as humans, I think we’ll learn to see things in a different way and rise up – different but stronger.
How has your life changed outside of work?
To be able to take care of my family, everyone I work with and all those who depend on transit, I have to take care of myself. I’m washing my hands often, wearing a mask everywhere I go and only going out for necessary things, like trips to the grocery store. On Sundays, I stay home with my family, watch movies, walk the dog and relax. I have two daughters, 18 and 21, and it’s like going back to when they were little – everybody is home and spending time together.
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Metro Transit is playing an essential role in the region's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Please consider showing your support for our essential workers by:
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